The Border Collie was developed in the hilly sheep pastures on the border between
Scotland and England. The dogs that herded sheep in that area had to work great distances
over broken, mountainous land, moving the sheep, not with barks or bites, but with an
intense stare and posture that communicated without force.

They have high levels of intelligence to allow them to work independently of the shepherd.
At the same time, they have a great desire to please their master, and the greatest reward
for them is in performing the task desired of them. This combination of abilities and
personality traits is their hallmark, more so than any particular color or coat or ear
type. Border Collies have been bred for years for the particular mix of stamina,
brains, and personality that makes them the world's greatest working dogs. Most often
black and white, with long ("rough") coats, there are other colors, such as red
and white, tri-colored (red or black and white with tan markings), or merle (diluted red
or black). Some have "smooth" (short) coat and ears in any position.

Unique behaviors can stem from the Border Collie's herding instincts. They can develop
obsessions with fish, ceiling fans, flashing lights, passing cars, or running children.
Little children and small pets can be endangered by the herding instinct, when their quick
or jerky movements awaken a Border Collie's strong prey drive!

A person considering a Border Collie as a family pet should use extreme caution, and
possibly look into another breed. If only a Border Collie will do, it would be wise to
select an ADULT Border Collie that has been evaluated for herding instinct and exposed to
children and small animals.

People who do decide to include a Border Collie in their lives, find they are tireless and
talented companions in nearly any active sport or work. They have an incredible ability to
learn hundreds of commands and anticipate what is expected of them. Of course, they demand
absolute consistency in training and an unbreakable routine. Any change in routine can
have memorable repercussions!

To keep most Border Collies from getting bored, activity is essential. Physical exercise
is not enough as their brains need to be stimulated with training activity as well. They
excel in dog sports such as formal obedience, agility, flyball, tracking, or competitive
Frisbee. Participation in some structured activity is advisable for this highly driven
breed. They are workaholics, most preferring a game of fetch to a treat or a pat on the
head. Many people find it difficult and unnerving to spend so much time in the company of
a dog that does not care for cuddles, but refuses to go amuse itself. Others enjoy the
slimy ball dropped in their laps, the blazing stare that demands, "Throw it! Just
once more won't hurt!"

2. Good with children under 5: No (extreme prey drive can be problematic)

3. Good with children over 5 & under 10: Maybe (see above)

4. Good with children over 10: Maybe (with proper outlet for herding/prey drive)

On items 2-4 making the assumption that the person getting the dog is your 'average'
family with little breed-specific or dog behavior knowlege. (NOTE: We would NOT recommend
a Border Collie for this type of family)

11. Less than lovely breed quirks: VERY quick to learn - will learn undesirable
behaviors faster than acceptable ones. Examples: Attacking TV or ceiling fans; chasing
cars or children; unlocking cabinets, doors and gates. ALSO, very susceptible to
separation anxiety - NOT a good dog for the average "nine-to-five" worker.

12. Average weight/size: 35 to 55 pounds

13. Personality: Quirky, thirsty for companionship, clingy, can be stubborn and
single-minded